Friday, August 10, 2012

A Florida teen with cerebral palsy is asking Nike CEO Mark Parker to design a line of shoes you don't have to tie.

Nice Kicks, a shoe blog by Matt Halfhill, has promised that for every retweet of this video marked with the hashtag #NIKELETTER, they'll send a postcard to Nike’s CEO in support of the idea: http://youtu.be/L5YG6a1-LNY

"If Nike would design and produce basketball and running shoes with moderate support and some kind of closure system that could be used by everyone, Nike could create a shoe line that attracts people that face the same physical challenges I did and still do, yet it could still be possible for anyone to wear them."

That kind of shoe would be perfect for my son Ben, and I'm sure for many other kids and adults with hand problems -- as well as for on-the-go folks who don't feel like taking the time to bend down and tie two shoelaces.

From one Matthew to another I have to say, "I feel this kids pain!" And as much as I like Nike products, the only running shoe that you don't need to tie is made by "ecco". Although there not high-tops, which flies against convention for those who ware leg braces, they provide a great fit and plenty of support.

Thanks everyone! When I checked the other day, the campaign didn't seem to be gaining much momentum (in fact there were some negative comments left on the shoe blog that is supporting the campaign). Thanks for the link Matt!

Hi5! 'EnjoyHi5Autism' sites are sharing Matthew Walzer's Open Letter to Nike. Remember, Nice Kicks @nicekicks will send free postcards for @matthewwalzer24 to Nike when you tweet using hashtag #NIKELETTER. Thanks! Also, for 'BLOOM-Parenting Kids with Disabilities' and more posts about cerebral palsy, special needs and other disability topics, see "disAbilityvoice - Disability Rights Advocate" believes 'People with disAbilities are Value-ABLE.' http://www.facebook.com/DisabilityVOICE .

The BLOOM blog welcomes comments from readers on issues that affect parents of children with disabilities. We moderate comments to ensure they’re on-topic and respectful. We don’t post comments that attack people or organizations.